I have not been aware of any member of Congress, representative or senator, nor any administration official, including the President, mentioning patriotism while speaking of paying one’s fair share of taxes. In my opinion, I think it would be appropriate to say that it was unpatriotic not to pay one’s fair share of taxes.

Patriotism is not just saluting our flag when it is presented; patriotism means one’s love of country, of service to others – from serving in the armed services, public service in one’s government at any level, to volunteering in one’s own local community for the benefit of those around them.

Patriotism is an attitude of serving, not of selfishness. Paying taxes is paramount in making our government work to serve everyone, in maintaining our infrastructure, fostering good health, and much more. It really is unfair for large corporations and those persons of great wealth to go to such great lengths to avoid paying their fair share to contribute to the commonwealth.

The IRS is very quick to point out to most of us our shortcomings when we file our returns each year. It would be good if they were as quick do bring the non-taxpayer to task. Closing all the loopholes in our tax structure would be a step in the right direction.

We need to speak out on this sad situation of tax avoidance by pointing out that it definitely is unpatriotic not to pay one’s fair share of taxes. Or – saying how patriotic are all those who do pay their taxes.

Karl F. Bach
PORT TOWNSEND